Exploring Covert Defence Deals Between Pakistan and France
Recent reports reveal that French defence companies are circumventing arms export restrictions to Pakistan by utilizing foreign subsidiaries. Pakistan’s naval capabilities will improve through the acquisition of advanced French technology, including the MBDA Albatros NG system. Despite a prohibition on direct military exports to Pakistan due to France’s alliance with India, ongoing engagements suggest evolving military cooperation.
Recent reports indicate that French defence companies are seeking alternative pathways to establish military contracts with Pakistan. This comes despite France’s official prohibition on arms exports to Pakistan. Allegations suggest these firms are employing subsidiaries or shareholders located outside France to facilitate such deals.
The acquisition of French technology will significantly enhance Pakistan’s naval capabilities. Two vessels, PNS Hunain and PNS Yamama, will be outfitted with the MBDA Albatros NG surface-to-air defence system and Thales NS110 surveillance radars, thus improving the Pakistani Navy’s defence and surveillance capabilities.
Moreover, it has been reported that the French Defence Attaché to Pakistan recently visited Daudsons Armoury, a local defence manufacturer. This firm has ventured into drone warfare, equipping drones with mini-rockets, marking a significant leap towards advanced weaponization.
Additionally, French companies are reportedly engaging with other Pakistani defence manufacturers, including the Karachi-based Alsons Group, which specializes in precision engineering and defence technologies.
France’s export policy prohibits the direct sale of military equipment to Pakistan, affected by France’s robust defence partnership with India, which opposes military collaboration with Pakistan. To navigate these restrictions, French firms seem to be utilizing their international networks to supply military technology to Pakistan.
Looking forward, there is speculation regarding potential future defence agreements between French and Pakistani firms. If such deals come to fruition, they could fundamentally transform the military relations between the two nations, despite the official constraints imposed by the French government.
These developments in defence dealings prompt considerations regarding their ramifications for regional security and diplomatic relations within the Indian subcontinent.
In summary, despite France’s official restrictions on military exports to Pakistan, French defence firms are exploring alternative methods to engage in military contracts. The enhancement of Pakistan’s naval capabilities through French technology and the potential for future agreements indicate a shifting dynamic in defence relations that could have significant implications for regional security.
Original Source: resonantnews.com
